Bicycle Benefit Ride For Ashley Okland

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SLATER, Iowa — Since Ashley Okland’s murder more than three years ago, people have raised money to catch her killer and keep her memory alive.

Sunday, family and friends gathered for a bicycle benefit ride in Slater. It’s near where Okland grew up. The group rode the High Trestle Trail to Woodward and back to the Nite Hawk Bar and Grille.

“By everyone being here, she still has an impact. She always will. That’s Ashley Okland,” says ride organizer Trevor Loftus.

The riders are raising money for the Ashley Okland Star Playground in Des Moines and Variety, The Children’s Charity where Okland volunteered. Friends say they’re proud to contribute to the kid-friendly memorial.

“It just looks fantastic and I’m just very proud to be part of raising the money for it,” says family friend, Tammie Harris of Slater.

Construction is underway at Ewing Park. The playground should be ready by July.